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Ben Stokes 'extremely delighted' to be back in the frame for England selection

Ben Stokes is back in the frame for England. Photo: PA

Ben Stokes says he is "extremely delighted" to be back in the frame for England selection.

The England and Wales Cricket Board announced earlier on Wednesday that the all-rounder is due to rejoin the team in February for the T20s in New Zealand.

Stokes was charged on Monday by the Crown Prosecution Service over an incident in Bristol in September last year but, having been unavailable since his initial arrest, he can now resume his international career.

The 26-year-old wrote on Twitter: "Representing my country is one of the greatest things that I've ever been lucky enough to do, walking out on to the field with the England shirt on is a privilege and a honour.

"I'm extremely delighted to be given this opportunity to do this again.

"Can't wait to get back out on a pitch with the 3 Lions on my chest and feeling that pride that we all get and giving everything for the team."

The England and Wales Cricket Board announced earlier on Wednesday that the all-rounder is due to rejoin the team. Credit: PA

England face Australia in the second of five one-day internationals on Friday, but Stokes is not set to link back up with the side until the latter part of the subsequent Twenty20 Tri-Series involving both sides and New Zealand.

The delay in Stokes' availability for the tri-series is believed to be in case there is a court appearance he would have to attend.

If all goes to plan, the 26-year-old could return to England colours against the Blacks Caps on February 13 and 18.

An ECB statement read: "Following a full Board discussion, in which all considerations were taken into account, the ECB Board has agreed that Ben Stokes should now be considered for England selection.

"Given the CPS decision to charge him and two others with affray, confirmation of his intention to contest the charge and the potential length of time to trial, the board agreed that it would not be fair, reasonable or proportionate for Ben Stokes to remain unavailable for a further indeterminate period.

"The ECB fully respects the legal process and the player's intention to defend himself against the charge.'

"England selectors, management and players have been informed and Ben Stokes is expected to join the squad in New Zealand for February's T20 matches."